Trump Threatens Iran Sanctions
Washington escalates economic pressure on Tehran, warning China over Iranian oil purchases.
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Updated Aug 21, 8:40pm ETBoth sides, every morning
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The reporting
President Trump threatened an “economic D-Day” against Iran, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Aug. 20 the U.S. would announce on Aug. 24 the “toughest sanctions in history,” aimed at countries and institutions providing Tehran a lifeline. China rejected the threat, saying sanctions do not serve any party’s interests, while Chinese refiners remain the main buyers of Iranian oil exports. Iran’s Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi vowed a “devastating” response, and parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned Iran must address its economic crisis.
Analysis & opinion
Empty ThreatsMostly Left
Trump’s threats of crushing economic action against Iran are not credible. His Iran strategy is too inconsistent and unproven to trust unless it actually produces meaningful results.
Economic Pressure WorksMostly Right
The United States should intensify economic warfare against Iran because the regime refuses to make a deal. Maximum pressure can weaken or even topple Iran’s regime without requiring a military attack.
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